The “knockers” who
had their weapons out for Theodor[e] Roosevelt have been obliged
to lay them aside, and acknowledge that th[e] conduct of the vice
presi[d]ent has been above reproach.
It isn’t exactly clear what the “opposition”
expected the vice president would do when called to Buffalo, but
there were surmises that the wild and woolly west ord[e]r of things
would prevail, and anxiety second only to the fear felt [f]or the
life of the president, was expressed as to the actions of the vice
president.
Those who for some unknown reason
believed he would take summary action to have th[e] disability clause
apply to the case in point, were astonished [w]hen, at the mere
suggestion, Theodore Roosevelt expressed in no uncertain terms his
disapproval of any such plan.
After his arrival in Buffalo “strenuous”
action was looked for, but it did not materialize. In every way
did the vice president resent any enthusiasm displayed at his appearance.
Hi[s] only thought was the recovery of the president, and the dignity
which he displayed has compelled the admiration of even his detractors.
The idea that Theodore Roosevelt had
no regard for the conventionalities of the position he occupies
has been completely shattered. The vice president’s host in Buffalo,
believing that the immediate danger being over, he would be justified
in proposing entertainment for his distinguished friend, suggested
that he utilize his last day by taking a g[l]impse of the exposition.
The kindly intended suggestion was met with the vehement reply:
“I do not believe, even though I am
assured of the president’s convalescence, that it would be entirely
proper for me to take part in any of the festivities. I have studiously
refrained [f]rom going out or being entertained during my visit,
and I will continue that policy until I leave. I cam[e] here absolutely
as a matter of duty, both to the president and to th[e] people,
and not for pleasure.”
Vice President Roosevelt has an idea
of the fitness of things for which his critics had not given him
credit. Th[e] tragedy at Buffalo has revealed him in a new light,
which meets with universal approbation.